How To Prevent Pipe Corrosion In Your Home

Are you worried about the long-term health of your plumbing system? Pipe corrosion is a silent issue that can lead to major plumbing failures, but you can prevent it. Do you also know that projections place the economic fallout from corrosion within Australia at about 3 to 5 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product per year, translating into billions of dollars? 

In particular, the water sector incurs great costs from the deterioration of infrastructure and assets caused by corrosion. All in all, corrosion results in an estimated annual economic burden of about $982 million, which covers its impact on the water sector and the general community.

What is Pipe Corrosion and Why Does It Happen?

Definition and Overview

Pipe corrosion is the degradation of piping material over time, which results from the chemical interaction of the materials with their surroundings, especially water, oxygen, and other elements. It can cause dangerous structural ground failures, leakage, and lower plumbing system efficiency.

This redox (oxidation-reduction) reaction compromises material integrity, resulting in leakages, structural failure, and sometimes high repair costs.

Several factors can initiate or accelerate the corrosion of pipes. Here are the common causes:

Water Chemistry: The pH level of water is highly important. When the pH is less than seven, the water becomes acidic, accelerating corrosion by removing the protective oxide layer from metallic pipes.

Improper or Poor Installation: Improper pipe installation or neglecting leaks and other problems can lead to rust and early pipe deterioration.

Age of Pipes: The age of plumbing pipes plays a crucial role in corrosion and later deterioration. As these pipes grow old, different factors, such as accumulated deposits and drops in temperature, can exacerbate the corrosion, resulting in problems such as leaks, contamination, or even failures in the system.

Moisture Exposure: The pipe’s exposure to moisture is one of the major reasons for pipe deterioration and can cause detrimental effects in plumbing systems and water transport infrastructures. Moisture initiates corrosion, as well as weakening the strength of piping materials.

How Corrosion Affects Plumbing Systems

Corrosion considerably affects plumbing systems by influencing their structural strength, water quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s how corroded pipes affect the plumbing system: 

Discoloured Water: Rust and corrosion can cause water discolouration, often brown or reddish. It may indicate a level of contamination that could be hazardous to health.

Reduced Water Pressure: Corrosion can roughen the interiors, creating blockages inside the pipes and reducing the water flow. Such a decrease can create system pressure problems and affect fixtures and appliances.

Leaky Pipes: Corrosion can thin and weaken pipes, making them incapable of supporting weight. This may eventually lead to tiny holes that build up and severe water loss.

Possible Flooding: As corrosion progresses, pipes develop small cracks that may eventually widen, resulting in serious ruptures. Such structural failures lead to an interruption of services, costly maintenance repairs, and destruction of properties.

Signs of Pipe Corrosion to Look Out For

Several signs appear that may suggest corrosion of the piping. Early recognition of the signs is vital for a proper plumbing system, and it drives one away from unnecessary, expensive repairs.

Low Water Pressure: Corrosion may cause blockages or reduce effective diameter in pipes due to tree roots or sediment accumulation, causing a reduction in the water flow. It may indicate internal corrosion if you notice variations or insufficiency of water pressure.

Rusty or Discoloured Water: Water that appears rusty or brown typically indicates the presence of iron oxide from corroded pipes. This type of colouration can be generated in galvanised steel and iron piping systems. 

On the other hand, corrosion of copper pipes can manifest as bluish-green discolouration in the water. If the water flowing through the copper pipes appears to have such tinges, the pipe material is gradually deteriorating, posing the risk of potential metal leaching.

Strange Noises in Pipes: Peculiar sounds such as banging or gurgling when water moves through pipes may indicate that air pockets develop due to corrosion, resulting in irregular or blocked flow.

Leaks and Damp Spots: Leaking pipes that cause visible dampness may give evidence of corrosion around hidden or concealed pipes.

When to Call a Plumbing Professional

Recognising when to seek professional help for piper inspection can help avoid significant plumbing issues and costly repairs.​ Contact Link Plumbing if you experience one or more of the following:

• Recurrent leaks or water damage 
• Low water pressure 
• Discoloured or unpleasant water
• Increased utility bills
• Aging plumbing system
• Renovation work
• Musty odours or mould growth

Tips for Preventing Pipe Corrosion in Your Home

Preventive measures can reduce the risk of pipe corrosion in your home, prolonging the life and performance of your plumbing system. Regular vigilance and action are crucial for corrosion protection, making the system stronger and more resilient.

Tip 1: Control Water pH Levels

According to Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, drinking water’s pH should be between 6.5 and 8.5 to effectively inhibit corrosion and encrustation in pipes and fittings.

Tip 2: Install a Water Softener

Water softeners regulate water quality by reducing pipe mineral buildup in pipes. They help mitigate corrosive elements, improving water chemistry and extending the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Tip 3: Regular Pipe Inspections

Keep the pipes under continuous observation for rust, discolouration, or any signs of dampness. Early detection enables you to take preventive measures. It’s a good idea to arrange for periodic inspections by calling Link Plumbing at 0412 056 027 to check for leaks and signs of corrosion, especially in older systems.

Tip 4: Use Corrosion-Resistant Materials

When replacing or installing new pipes, select materials that resist corrosion: PEX, CPVC, and stainless steel. These materials will greatly reduce the chances of corrosion occurring over time.

Tip 5: Keep Pipes Dry

Maintaining dry and well-ventilated areas is essential to prevent excessive moisture build-up on pipes to last longer and work well in plumbing systems. The elevated moisture levels may lead to corrosion, mould appearance, and structural damage.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What are the most common causes of pipe corrosion?

The most common causes of pipe corrosion include water chemistry, improper or poor installation, age of pipes, and moisture exposure.  

2. How can I tell if my pipes are corroded?

Tell-tale signs of corroded pipes include low water pressure, rusty or discoloured water, strange pipe noises, and leaks and damp spots.

3. Can pipe corrosion be repaired?

It can be repaired with various methods. However, the approach depends on the severity of the damage, the associated type of piping used, and the primary causes of corrosion.

4. How often should I have my pipes inspected for corrosion? 

The factors based on which inspection frequencies vary emphasise the age and classification of plumbing fixtures, water quality and environmental conditions surrounding the piping.

It could be annualy, every 2 to 3 years for older plumbing systems, or immediate inspections after changes in the environment.

5. Can I prevent pipe corrosion on my own?

Keeping an eye on water quality, the right materials, ventilation, fixing leaking pipes, and insulation could keep down the chances of corrosion in your plumbing system to a much extent.

Regular maintenance and monitoring are very important in preventing the larger ones, which would save you money as well as increase the life of your plumbing system. If you suspect major corrosion, be sure to contact Link Plumbing. We will examine and deal with any problems properly and efficiently.